Palmérus, Kerstin

Abstract [en]

OBJECTIVE: In previous research, several variables are shown to have an impact on children's perception of gender. The aim of this study was to examine the relation between discipline methods and the child's beliefs about the importance of gender in transgression situations. METHODS: In this study, variables such as type of siblings, socioeconomic status, child's sex, parental values and shared responsibility are controlled for. Two hundred and five 8-year-old children in Sweden were interviewed about discipline methods in five transgression situations and their parents were asked to fill in a battery of questions. RESULTS: The results show that harsher discipline methods, such as behaviour modification, physical restraint and physical punishment, relate to stronger beliefs about the importance of gender in transgression situations.